The Elder Futhark

The Elder Futhark is the oldest form of the runic alphabet, used by Germanic tribes of the 2nd to 8th centuries for inscriptions on artifacts such as jewellery, amulets, tools, weapons and runestones.
Unlike the Younger Futhark, which remained in use until modern times, the knowledge of how to read the Elder Futhark was forgotten, and it was not until 1865 that the Norwegian scholar Sophus Bugge managed to decipher it.

Fehu (Fé) - F

Fehu signifies Cattle, which is a strong symbol for wealth and prosperity, a source of food, of stability, security and growth.

Uruz (Úr) - U

Uruz signifies Wild Ox, which is usually seen as a symbol for strength, power and primal force. It can also mean a renewel, as in out with the old and in with the new.

Thurisaz (Thuris) - Th

Thurisaz signifies Thorn, a symbol linked to Thor and his hammer. A defence against enemies, security, protection.

Ansuz (Ós) - A

Ansuz signifies Ash, Yggdrasil, The World Tree. The Asa-Gods, The Aesir. Divine inspiration.

Raidho (Raeid) - R

Raido signifies Journey, implying, not just physical travel, but a quest for spiritual enlightenment.

Kenaz (Kaun) - K / C

Kenaz signifies Torch, light after a period of darkness. Order from chaos, creative fire.

Gebo (Gyfu) - G

Gebo signifies Gift, referring to both giving of oneself and receiving. A blessing on relationships.

Wunjo (Wýn) - W

Wunjo signifies Joy, A rune associated with Freyja, the goddess of love. It can mean positive change.

Hagalaz (Hagall) - H

Hagalaz signifies Hail, often seen as a symbol of damage and destruction, or a warning of illness.

Nauthiz (Naudr) - N

Nauthiz signifies Need, the idea of binding and constraint, and its shape reflects that of a knot in a piece of string

Isaz (Is) - I

Isaz signifies Ice, it symbolizes danger and impediment.

Jera (Ár) - J

Jera signifies Harvest, a rune related to the autumn, season of harvesting and plenty. A rune symbolic of success.

Eihwaz (Yr) - AE

Eihwaz signifies The Yew Tree, it stands for reliabilty and trust.

Perthro (Pertra) - P

Perthro signifies Mystery, Living in the moment and experiencing the unexpected.